“We could have communicated this move better, and for that we apologise”
The Bristol Bears and Bristol Sport have expressed regret to the supporters for the management of the Family Area’s movement during rugby games. Bristol Sport Group CEO Gavin Marshall stated they could have “communicated this move better” in a “open letter” to many season ticket holders who were informed they had to vacate the seats they had occupied for many years.
Many Bristol Bears season ticket holders received notice just days before season ticket renewals and sales were scheduled to begin that they would no longer be allowed to sit in their current seats in specific sections of the South Stand as they were moving the Family Area to this part of the ground at Ashton Gate. A huge number of fans were quick to take to social media to complain about the lack of warning and communication around the decision.
A significant number of the impacted spectators have occupied the same seats for nearly a decade. Young fans would be “closer to the action in a great atmosphere with a superb view, as well as helping them to enjoy our usual pre-match concourse activities and making it easier to grab players’ autographs after the match,” according to the Bristol Bears at the time of the announcement.
“I want to start by thanking you for your incredible support this season as we approach the end of another campaign,” Mr. Marshall said in the most recent email, which was sent out after season ticket sales and renewals had begun. With two Bears Men home games left, we are still on track to break the previous record for Ashton Gate attendance, which is more than than 18,500, which is a huge credit to you all, our very loyal supporters.
“Since the previous season, we have kept up our efforts to theme our matchdays, provide support to numerous charitable causes and community events, and, ideally, enhance the matchday experience for all those in attendance. We’ve had some incredibly thrilling moments this season, from an electrifying, sold-out derby day triumph over Bath to a historic matchup with the Crusaders.
“Engaging with our community remains absolutely key, and we particularly enjoyed the College Green open training session, as well as Bears Giving Back Week and the Balloon Fiesta annual visit.”
After that, the email, dated April 18, said, “One of the achievements we are most proud of is the huge growth of our U12 fan base, with an average of more than 3,000 junior supporters per match at Ashton Gate in 2023/24, representing 16% of our crowds!” “The percentage of young Bears fans is increasing and they currently make up 19% of the club’s total Season Ticket supporter base,” a club spokeswoman previously told BristolLive.
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